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High Point State Park , N.J.: The result of continental collisions that folded earth's crust, and centuries of ice sheets and erosion, the Kittatinny Ridge that the park is named for is the highest point in the state. Make it to the top for magnificent views, unique flora and a memorial dedicated to New Jersey's veterans. The 10,000-acre park is also home to the highest elevation swamp of its kind in the world.
Flickr/aloucha

Custer State Park, S.D.: Custer touts itself as one of the few remaining wild sanctuaries in the country. Elk, mountain goats and nearly 1,300 buffalo roam this 71,000-acre park, set in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Visit in the autumn to experience the annual buffalo roundup, where wranglers and rangers bring the buffalo population together. They say you can feel the earth shake beneath thousands of heavy hooves.
Flickr/AR Nature Gal

Bogue Chitto State Park, La.: Showcasing some of southern Louisiana's most remarkable landscapes, Bogue Chitto State Park is a perfect campground and play place for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. Accommodations for tent, cabin and RV camping are available and as home to streams, rivers, swamps, forests and rolling hills, the 1,786-acre park offers opportunities for everything from kayaking to horseback riding and fresh-water fishing to perfectly picturesque picnicking.
Louisiana State Parks

Cape Henlopen State Park, Del.: Swimming, hiking, biking and an 18-hole disc golf course -- what more could you ask for in a park? How about some American history? Cape Henlopen has seen it all: Native American communities, WWII bunkers and towers, Cold War preparations, and even pirates. Visit this versatile state park for six miles of beach that dips into the Atlantic, a WWII Observation tower with 360-degree views and convenient saltwater fishing.
Flickr/Bob Mical

Fall Creek Falls State Park, Tenn.: As Tennessee's largest and most visited state park, Fall Creek Falls presents visitors with a long outdoor to-do list. The waterfall which the park is named after stands at 256 feet and is one of the tallest in the eastern U.S. Within the park's perimeters you'll find three more impressive falls, more than 34 miles of hiking trails, an interactive nature center and an 18-hole golf course.
Flickr/Michael Hicks

Indiana Dunes State Park, Ind.: Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, these 15 miles of state park coast are known as some of the best lakefront beaches in the country. If sun and sand aren't for you, the park has more than 70 miles of hiking and biking trails which wind through dunes, forests, prairies and marshes.
Flickr/Tom Gill

Monmouth Battlefield State Park, N.J.: Once a turbulent battlefield during the Revolutionary War, the hilly farmland setting of New Jersey's Monmouth Battlefield is now better recognized as a peaceful state park. Visitors are welcome to participate in activities like hiking, apple picking, bird watching and horseback riding, and with a landscape that offers everything from wooded paths to open meadows after a long day of exploring, the only thing left to do is choose the perfect picnic spot.
Flickr/Scott McDonough

Little Missouri State Park, N.D.: Sightseers are attracted to this rugged North Dakota park for a glimpse of awe-inspiring scenery made up of unusual land formations that were sculpted by wind, water and sand long ago. Most of the park is only accessible by foot or horseback but with more than 47 miles of trails, hikers and riders can accomplish plenty of exploration. Aside from electrical hookups for campers, all of the park's additional facilities are primitive.
Flickr/Jasperdo

Antelope Island State Park, Utah: In a state synonymous with pristine public lands, Antelope Island is somewhat of an overlooked treasure. Offering access to the Great Salt Lake and Frary Peak, the hiking and biking trails are a key attraction. Antelope Island is home to an array of wildlife, including bison, antelope and many birds. Campsites are available for overnight stays.
Flickr/Ricky Rodriguez

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, West Va.: Noted for its historical significance, this West Virginia state park is nestled among mountain ranges and transports visitors back in time to the era of steam-driven locomotives. Restored company houses now serve as vacation cottages and the best part of your visit will be a train ride through town and up the mountain toward the two switchbacks and Whittaker Station where you can grab a bite to eat, take a tour of a rustic log cabin or simply enjoy the breathtaking views of West Virginia's wilderness.
Flickr/Ron Cogswell

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Fla.: Aquarium mermaids have drawn visitors to Weeki Wachee since 1947, but they're not the only park dwellers who get to wade in warm waters. The 74-degree springs are open for recreation all year long and the shore's sandy beaches make for a perfect place to relax underneath the Florida sun. The Weeki Wachee River lends itself to river boat cruises, canoeing and kayaking and starting in April the park also features water slides, flumes and animal shows.
Flickr/mbarrison

Roan Mountain State Park, Tenn.: More than 2,000 acres of park land is split by the twisting Doe River. Filled with three species of trout, the river is a prime fishing spot and those looking to extend their stay will find cabins, RV and tent camping with access to bathrooms and showers. Twelve miles of hiking trails, a 2.25 mile mountain biking course and cross country skiing in the winter round out the park best known for its trout.
Flickr/BlueRidgeKitties

Jockey's Ridge State Park, N.C.: Those on the East Coast looking to experience the desert should head to Jockey's Ridge. According to the North Carolina Parks Department, the park resembles the Sahara Desert, but is also on the shore of Roanoke Sound. Fantastic sunsets and the tallest sand dune on the Atlantic coast draw visitors from all over.
Flickr/Shawn Beelman

Kanapolis State Park, Kan.: This state park is situated amidst the striking Smoky Hills region of Kansas and is treasured for its many miles of hiking trails that meander through canyons, prairies and wooded creek bottoms. The sublime Dakota sandstone bluffs and craggy Horsethief Canyon decorate the park and its surrounding area presenting pristine views of what's considered some of Kansas' most stunning scenery.
Flickr/Vincent Parsons

Long Beach Island, N.J.: Known for swift currents, troublesome sandbars and offshore shoals that wrecked many ships throughout history, Long Beach Island is also home to the infamous Barnegat Lighthouse. Learn about the treacherous history of the lighthouse, the coastal environment and the shifting coastline at the recently renovated Interpretive Center.
Flickr/thisisbossi

Hunting Island State Park, S.C.: The "single most popular" state park in South Carolina attracts more than a million visitors annually and was recently named a top 10 beach in the U.S. by TripAdvisor. On the well-preserved, 5-mile stretch of South Carolina coast you'll find a maritime forest, the only publicly accessible lighthouse in the state and the white-tipped waves of the Atlantic.
Flickr/Frank DiBona

High Bridge Trail State Park, Va.: It comes as no surprise that the centerpiece of this state park is a 125-foot tall, 2,400-foot long bridge that sits above the Appomattox River. Connected to the 31-mile High Bridge Trail, the route is suitable for bikers, hikers and horseback riders alike. As the longest recreational bridge in all of Virginia, as well as one of the longest in the entire U.S., High Bridge has been designated as a Virginia Historic Landmark and is also on the National Register of Historic places, making it a landmark park you won't want to miss.
Flickr/Taber Andrew Bain

Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park, N.M.: Exhibiting 56 species of animals and countless species of plants native to the Chihuahuan Desert, this unique state park prides itself on providing outreach to thousands of visitors and school children every year. Currently showcasing two internationally endangered species, the Mexican Grey Wolf and the Bolson tortoise, this exotic zoo is a must-see for all animal lovers.
Flickr/Fritz Liess

Liberty State Park, N.J.: The proverbial jack of all trades, Liberty State Park provides access to most of the region's natural, cultural and historical resources. Among the many attractions, the park is home to the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey (CRRNJ), the Liberty Science Center, the Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial and an outdoor performance area. Situated on the shore of the Hudson River, the park is the only place in the state with ferry service to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
Flickr/Shinya Suzuki

Hanging Rock State Park, N.C.: With hiking trails, vacation cabins, interpretive nature programs, picnic areas, waterfalls and priceless panoramas of the piedmont plateau, Hanging Rock lends an endless list of activities no matter what your interests. Cast a line out into the lake or simply relax by the shore, plan a picnic with your family or explore the surrounding mountains, whatever type of adventure you choose you're sure to learn something new about North Carolina's grand landscape.
Flickr/Amy Meredith

Hunting Island State Park, S.C.: The "single most popular" state park in South Carolina attracts more than a million visitors annually and was recently named a top 10 beach in the U.S. by TripAdvisor. On the well-preserved, 5-mile stretch of South Carolina coast you'll find a maritime forest, the only publicly accessible lighthouse in the state and the white-tipped waves of the Atlantic.(Photo: Flickr/Frank DiBona)

Playgrounds, green pastures and playful pups; these are a few of the things we first think of when we hear the word "park." Not that these associations aren't on point, but there are more than 7,500 state parks plotted across the U.S., all of which feature attractions that reach beyond your typical interpretation of a picturesque park.

Aside from the federally run national parks, each of our 50 states is home to an elaborate park system of its own, all designed to preserve the most environmentally significant and historic lands of the area. According to the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD), each year more than 720 million Americans visit state parks and generate more than $20 billion in revenue for local communities.

With gems like North Dakota's rugged Little Missouri State Park and West Virginia's historic Cass Railroad State Park strewn across the states, a visit to one of our nation's state parks opens up opportunities that extend far beyond picnicking and playing fetch with Fido.

This list of noteworthy state parks was compiled by the people who know them best: the directors and managers whose job it is to run and maintain them. Lewis Leford, executive director of the NASPD, called upon deputies from an assortment of states in order to gather their expert recommendations.

While The Active Times couldn't include a park from every single state, we're still confident that we've painted a quality picture that highlights a good deal of our country's best state parks.

The result of continental collisions that folded earth's crust, and centuries of ice sheets and erosion, the Kittatinny Ridge that the park is named for is the highest point in the state. Make it to the top for magnificent views, unique flora and a memorial dedicated to New Jersey's veterans. The 10,000-acre park is also home to the highest elevation swamp of its kind in the world. state.nj.us

Custer State Park, S.D.

Custer touts itself as one of the few remaining wild sanctuaries in the country. Elk, mountain goats and nearly 1,300 buffalo roam this 71,000-acre park, set in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Visit in the autumn to experience the annual buffalo roundup, where wranglers and rangers bring the buffalo population together. They say you can feel the earth shake beneath thousands of heavy hooves. travelsd.com

Bogue Chitto State Park, La.

Showcasing some of southern Louisiana's most remarkable landscapes, Bogue Chitto State Park is a perfect campground and play place for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. Accommodations for tent, cabin and RV camping are available and as home to streams, rivers, swamps, forests and rolling hills, the 1,786-acre park offers opportunities for everything from kayaking to horseback riding and fresh-water fishing to perfectly picturesque picnicking. lastateparks.com

Cape Henlopen State Park, Del.

Swimming, hiking, biking and an 18-hole disc golf course -- what more could you ask for in a park? How about some American history? Cape Henlopen has seen it all: Native American communities, WWII bunkers and towers, Cold War preparations, and even pirates. Visit this versatile state park for six miles of beach that dips into the Atlantic, a WWII Observation tower with 360-degree views and convenient saltwater fishing. destateparks.com

Fall Creek Falls State Park, Tenn.

As Tennessee's largest and most visited state park, Fall Creek Falls presents visitors with a long outdoor to-do list. The waterfall which the park is named after stands at 256 feet and is one of the tallest in the eastern U.S. Within the park's perimeters you'll find three more impressive falls, more than 34 miles of hiking trails, an interactive nature center and an 18-hole golf course. "It's just one breathtaking waterfall after another. Incredible hiking, caving and a great lake with fishing cabins and a great lodge," says Delaware State Parks Director Raymond E. Bivens. Overnight visitors can book a room in the Fall Creek Falls Inn and more adventurous travelers can take advantage of the park's cabins and campsites. For those who really like to rough it, backcountry camping is also available with permit. tnstateparks.com

Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, these 15 miles of state park coast are known as some of the best lakefront beaches in the country. If sun and sand aren't for you, the park has more than 70 miles of hiking and biking trails which wind through dunes, forests, prairies and marshes. in.gov

Monmouth Battlefield State Park, N.J.

Once a turbulent battlefield during the Revolutionary War, the hilly farmland setting of New Jersey's Monmouth Battlefield is now better recognized as a peaceful state park. Visitors are welcome to participate in activities like hiking, apple picking, bird watching and horseback riding, and with a landscape that offers everything from wooded paths to open meadows after a long day of exploring, the only thing left to do is choose the perfect picnic spot. njparksandforests.org

Little Missouri State Park, N.D.

Sightseers are attracted to this rugged North Dakota park for a glimpse of awe-inspiring scenery made up of unusual land formations that were sculpted by wind, water and sand long ago. Most of the park is only accessible by foot or horseback but with more than 47 miles of trails, hikers and riders can accomplish plenty of exploration. Aside from electrical hookups for campers, all of the park's additional facilities are primitive. parkrec.nd.gov

Antelope Island State Park, Utah

In a state synonymous with pristine public lands, Antelope Island is somewhat of an overlooked treasure. Offering access to the Great Salt Lake and Frary Peak, the hiking and biking trails are a key attraction. Antelope Island is home to an array of wildlife, including bison, antelope and many birds. Campsites are available for overnight stays. stateparks.utah.gov

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, West Va.

Noted for its historical significance, this West Virginia state park is nestled among mountain ranges and transports visitors back in time to the era of steam-driven locomotives. Restored company houses now serve as vacation cottages and the best part of your visit will be a train ride through town and up the mountain toward the two switchbacks and Whittaker Station where you can grab a bite to eat, take a tour of a rustic log cabin or simply enjoy the breathtaking views of West Virginia's wilderness. "Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is one of the best examples of early 20th-century industrial history," said Robert L. Beanblossom, District Administrator for the Parks and Recreation Section of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. cassrailroad.com

Aquarium mermaids have drawn visitors to Weeki Wachee since 1947, but they're not the only park dwellers who get to wade in warm waters. The 74-degree springs are open for recreation all year long and the shore's sandy beaches make for a perfect place to relax underneath the Florida sun. The Weeki Wachee River lends itself to river boat cruises, canoeing and kayaking and starting in April the park also features water slides, flumes and animal shows. floridastateparks.org

Roan Mountain State Park, Tenn.

More than 2,000 acres of park land is split by the twisting Doe River. Filled with three species of trout, the river is a prime fishing spot and those looking to extend their stay will find cabins, RV and tent camping with access to bathrooms and showers. Twelve miles of hiking trails, a 2.25 mile mountain biking course and cross country skiing in the winter round out the park best known for its trout. tnstateparks.com

Jockey's Ridge State Park, N.C.

Those on the East Coast looking to experience the desert should head to Jockey's Ridge. According to the North Carolina Parks Department, the park resembles the Sahara Desert, but is also on the shore of Roanoke Sound. Fantastic sunsets and the tallest sand dune on the Atlantic coast draw visitors from all over. ncparks.gov

Kanapolis State Park, Kan.

This state park is situated amidst the striking Smoky Hills region of Kansas and is treasured for its many miles of hiking trails that meander through canyons, prairies and wooded creek bottoms. The sublime Dakota sandstone bluffs and craggy Horsethief Canyon decorate the park and its surrounding area presenting pristine views of what's considered some of Kansas' most stunning scenery. kdwpt.state.ks.us

Long Beach Island, N.J.

Known for swift currents, troublesome sandbars and offshore shoals that wrecked many ships throughout history, Long Beach Island is also home to the infamous Barnegat Lighthouse. Learn about the treacherous history of the lighthouse, the coastal environment and the shifting coastline at the recently renovated Interpretive Center. islandbeachnj.org

Hunting Island State Park, S.C.

The "single most popular" state park in South Carolina attracts more than a million visitors annually and was recently named a top 10 beach in the U.S. by TripAdvisor. On the well-preserved, 5-mile stretch of South Carolina coast you'll find a maritime forest, the only publicly accessible lighthouse in the state and the white-tipped waves of the Atlantic. southcarolinaparks.com

High Bridge Trail State Park, Va.

It comes as no surprise that the centerpiece of this state park is a 125-foot tall, 2,400-foot long bridge that sits above the Appomattox River. Connected to the 31-mile High Bridge Trail, the route is suitable for bikers, hikers and horseback riders alike. As the longest recreational bridge in all of Virginia, as well as one of the longest in the entire U.S., High Bridge has been designated as a Virginia Historic Landmark and is also on the National Register of Historic places, making it a landmark park you won't want to miss. dcr.virginia.gov

Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park, N.M.

Exhibiting 56 species of animals and countless species of plants native to the Chihuahuan Desert, this unique state park prides itself on providing outreach to thousands of visitors and school children every year. Currently showcasing two internationally endangered species, the Mexican Grey Wolf and the Bolson tortoise, this exotic zoo is a must-see for all animal lovers. emnrd.state.nm.us

Liberty State Park, N.J.

The proverbial jack of all trades, Liberty State Park provides access to most of the region's natural, cultural and historical resources. Among the many attractions, the park is home to the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey (CRRNJ), the Liberty Science Center, the Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial and an outdoor performance area. Situated on the shore of the Hudson River, the park is the only place in the state with ferry service to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. state.nj.us

Hanging Rock State Park, N.C.

With hiking trails, vacation cabins, interpretive nature programs, picnic areas, waterfalls and priceless panoramas of the piedmont plateau, Hanging Rock lends an endless list of activities no matter what your interests. Cast a line out into the lake or simply relax by the shore, plan a picnic with your family or explore the surrounding mountains, whatever type of adventure you choose you're sure to learn something new about North Carolina's grand landscape. ncparks.gov